The MLB Postseason Has Arrived
The MLB playoffs are officially underway. Twelve teams, including the Houston Astros and the Philadelphia Phillies, have secured their spots after crucial wins in the final game of the regular season. Now, the slate is wiped clean; all contenders begin with a record of 0-0, giving each team an equal opportunity to chase the World Series title.
However, as the postseason nears, it’s clear that some teams are in stronger positions than others. Here’s a rundown of the 12 teams in the MLB playoffs, ranked by their likelihood of clinching the World Series.
12. Houston Astros (81-81)
The Houston Astros made history as the first team to win their division without a winning record. Impressive, right? They certainly have the power at the plate, leading the majors with 226 home runs, highlighted by MVP candidate Yordan Alvarez who accounted for 42 of those. Other sluggers, like Christian Walker, Jeremy Peña, Isaac Paredes, and Cam Smith, contributed with over 20 home runs apiece. Yet, it seems their pitching is an issue. This year, the Astros ranked 24th in ERA and 21st in WHIP. Closer Josh Hader has been reliable, nabbing 16 saves with a low WHIP of 0.682, and Bryan Abreu has been a solid presence. But beyond these two, the bullpen has struggled. If their rotation falters, they might be in trouble.
11. Chicago White Sox (84-78)
The Chicago White Sox turned heads this season, recovering from three consecutive years of losing over 100 games to lead the AL Central for a significant part of the season. They eventually secured a Wild Card spot. Their lineup features three players with over 30 home runs—Munetaka Murakami, Colson Montgomery, and Miguel Vargas. The White Sox had the second-best on-base percentage of .320 in the American League. Still, starting pitching could be a concern; they ranked 26th in ERA at 4.60. Facing Houston in the Wild Card Series will be a tough opener.
10. Philadelphia Phillies (88-74)
The Phillies brought their magic number down to one with a recent win over the Brewers but stumbled afterward, losing their next four games by a total of 23-3. It all came down to a win on the last day of the season to secure their playoff spot, which they achieved with a solid 7-3 victory over the Rays. Stars like Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, and Trae Turner highlight an impressive roster, though questions loom regarding pitching depth and rotation fatigue leading into an important matchup against the Braves. Can their bullpen handle the pressure?
9. Cleveland Guardians (85-77)
While the White Sox surprised all, the Cleveland Guardians clinched the AL Central and earned a first-round bye. This advantageous position let them avoid tight matchups until a possible ALCS contest. Their strength lies in a solid rotation and a robust bullpen, with Gavin Williams and Parker Messick driving a starting staff that boasts a commendable ERA. If the Guardians’ offense clicks, they have the potential to go far.
8. Boston Red Sox (87-75)
The Red Sox, after a rocky start that led to a managerial change, showed resilience, rattling off an impressive 32-5 record at one point. Yet, as they approach the playoffs, concerns linger about player health and recent performances, especially since they struggled significantly in September with a last-place OPS of .651. On the pitching front, they boast a strong trio in Payton Tolle, Sonny Gray, and Ranger Suárez, which could be crucial. Simply put, which version of the team will show up in the postseason?
7. Chicago Cubs
The Cubs possess one of the league’s most potent offenses, led by MVP candidate Pete Crow-Armstrong, who became the first center fielder to achieve a 40/40 season. With a league-best OPS and strong defensive stats, they have a solid foundation. However, pitching issues persist, especially with a 4.27 ERA among starters— the worst among playoff teams. With injuries impacting the rotation, can they maintain their success and make a deep run?
6. San Diego Padres (91-71)
Momentum is on the Padres’ side after strong finish in September. They overcame a shaky start to qualify for the Wild Card, led by Fernando Tatis Jr., whose remarkable late stretch helped the team secure its position. Their offense mirrors the Cubs, performing well in OPS and slugging, complemented by an impressive bullpen. Facing the Cubs in the Wild Card Series presents an interesting matchup, especially given their recent turnaround.
5. New York Yankees (93-68)
Despite losing Aaron Judge for a significant stretch, the Yankees managed to keep their offense firing, averaging over 223 home runs. As Judge’s status remains uncertain ahead of a playoff face-off with the Red Sox, the remaining lineup must rise to the occasion against a formidable Boston pitching rotation. It’ll be a challenge without their star slugger.
4. Atlanta Braves (94-67)
The Braves hoped for a first-round bye but ended up setting their rotation for the Wild Card Series. They will face the Phillies, a team that struggled towards the end of the season securing a playoff spot. With optimally rested pitchers on the mound, Atlanta might leverage its strength against Philadelphia.
3. Tampa Bay Rays (98-64)
At the beginning of the season, the Rays were considered longshots, yet they emerged as AL East champions. Led by Junior Caminero, who delivered impressive numbers, plus a balanced team offense and stellar pitching, the Rays have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with. Their chances to advance look promising.
2. Los Angeles Dodgers (100-62)
The Dodgers faced their share of ups and downs this season but have seemingly found their form now. With star players like Kyle Tucker, Shohei Ohtani, and Mookie Betts gearing up for the playoffs, they possess the depth to make a significant impact. But can they keep up the momentum?
1. Milwaukee Brewers (103-59)
Leading the rankings, the Brewers celebrate a historic season with over 100 wins for the first time. They have regularly dominated the NL Central, yet their past postseason performances raise questions. With standout pitchers like Jacob Misiorowski, who is among the best in the league, the real test will be whether they can translate regular-season success into playoff victories.
